Do “High Mileage” oils actually make a difference or is it all marketing hype?

all time high
Rockstar from another dimension asked:

So I drive a ’93 Accord with about 180K miles, still running strong. Every time I go to buy oil I always debate over getting the more expensive high mileage formulation.

Does anyone know if there is actually a proven difference that makes it worth buying over the regular oil, or is it all just a marketing game?



Comments (6)    Posted in Maintenance & Repairs    

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6 Responses to 'Do “High Mileage” oils actually make a difference or is it all marketing hype?'

  1. Mr. KnowItAll - October 19th, 2009 at 12:02 am

    I’m with you.
    “It’s new, it’s gotta be better”. (NOT)

    Use what you’ve been using. It’s proven it’s self already.

  2. dodge man - October 20th, 2009 at 9:02 am

    yes it actually does make a big difference in it,especially if you go with a synthetic oil in it,that really makes a difference ,they have actually formulated the higher mileage oils to help older cars do a lot better,and some of them do help the engine last a lot longer , i use a synthetic oil and it has helped my vehicles a lot,if you decide to go with a good synthetic oil Mobil one is the best i have used so far,it holds up really well,and you don’t have to change it near as often as you do regular oil,good luck with it.

  3. Ron B - October 22nd, 2009 at 9:20 am

    It’s all smoke and mirrors. The best oil for your high mileage car is mobil delvac 1300 15w40. Of course, it’s just my opinion.

  4. Country Boy - October 23rd, 2009 at 9:39 am

    I received this tip from a Quaker State Quick oil change owner: The one and only worthwhile plus high mileage oil has going for it is the ability to stop very small oil leaks. Not rear main seal leaking or oil burning from loose valve guides or warn piston rings. By small leaks I’m referring to valve covers or pan gaskets.

    If your car has no small oil leak issues the extra cost doesn’t warrant any consideration at all. As for any company maintaining added protection I’ve yet to see it in any motor.

    Stick to your glove compartment recommendations for oil viscosity and change schedule. Buy quality oil filters NAPA, Wix (same filters) AC Delco or a top shelf Purolator.

  5. Jake - October 24th, 2009 at 8:52 am

    I’d say go for the high mileage oil, try advance auto parts, they sell castrol high mileage for $2.50 a quart on sale right now, so it’s not like its more expencive.

    And yes high mileage oils do make a difference. They’re synthetic blends right off the bat, so they’re a more upscale oil, they can help stop leaks or burning oil, but they can also help prevent it. They have a very robust additive package and good base oils.

    Somepeople have run high mileage oil from mile 1 to mile 200,000 with no problems, and a very healthy engine.

    I did one oil change with castrol high mileage, and my engine was very smooth, much smoother than usual. As soon as I need my next oil change im going to buy the high mileage.

    Check out bobistheoilguy.com , the guys over there love the valvoline maxlife high mileage, and many of them use it in their own cars with great results.

  6. man_with_koolaid_smile - October 26th, 2009 at 7:04 am

    its a waste of money :)


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